Russian state shipowner Sovcomflot (SCF) could be part-privatised in the first half of this year.

But any deal will not take place before May, economic development minister Maxim Oreshkin told reporters.

The government plans to sell 25% minus one share in the tanker and LNG carrier player.

"The deal is planned for the first half. But not in March and not in April," Oreshkin said, according to Interfax.

SCF